John Collins

JOHN THOMAS COLLINS our beloved Brother,
Father, Uncle and Friend was born to the blessed union of Phillip and
Elizabeth Collins on September 26, 1942 in the city of Detroit,
Michigan. John was a 1961 graduate of Eastern High School. He
later graduated from Control Data Institute (ITT Tech), Detroit
Business Institute and the Electronic Institute of Technology. John
was a versatile individual, who held jobs as a Video Setup Technician
for MGA Research, a Technician/Installer of computerized commercial
laundry equipment for Diversey/Faberlife of Wyandotte, MI, a Truck
Driver for DPW and a Bus Driver for the Department of Transportation
(DOT).
In 1961 at the tender age of 18, John and his brother Adib (aka as
Phillip) bravely transported their mother and younger siblings from
Detroit to Selma, California. Before the 2,400 mile trip was completed
more than a week later, there were tires changed, transmission failure
in Kalamazoo and a host of other mishaps endured. But the family
endured them all with great confidence.
John volunteered to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He was
stationed in Schofield, Hawaii as a Radio Relay Signal Operator. His
proficiency as a swimmer earned him the position of Company Life
Guard capable of surf board rescues. John served until he was
Honorable Discharged.
John was wedded to Jacquelyn Davis. To this union two children
were born - Kenneth Duane of Lansing, MI and Christine Sydnie
(Marie) of Syracuse, NY. John was later married for many years to
Peggy. John is preceded in death by his Parents, a sister Rhoda, and
brother Hakim. John lives on in the hearts of his family - Maalik
(Darlene) (Detroit), Phyllis (Hemet, CA), Adib (Fresno, CA), Nadira
(Fresno, CA), Victoria (Atlanta, GA), Ruth (Fresno, CA), Jonathan
(Brenda), Judith (Atlanta, GA), Hannah (Abdul) (Kansas City, KS),
nieces and nephews to numerous to name and a dear friend and
caregiver Ms. Betty Pitts.